Medicines in Pregnancy: What to Consider?

When taking medication during pregnancy it is important to note that the unborn child is treated together. Therefore, care should be taken when on medication, take only in consultation with a doctor and to take only if it is unavoidable.

When taking medication during pregnancy it is important to note that the unborn child is treated together. Therefore, care should be taken when on medication, take only in consultation with a doctor and to take only if it is unavoidable.

Whether and to what extent actual harm to the embryo (e.g., malformations or malfunctions of development) through medication happen, cannot be assessed with certainty because there is little clear evidence that exist. One of the few, but a drastic impact medication during pregnancy is characterized by the so-called thalidomide scandal that became known.

The period of the fourth to the tenth week of pregnancy is particularly sensitive in relation to a medication. At the time the formation of the internal organs of the fetus, and there is a correspondingly greater caution advised.

A large number of complaints during pregnancy can be herbal and homeopathic medicines, as well as with distributed small (instead of high) doses of conventional medicines treat. Furthermore, an optimization of the different way of life is needed to prevent symptoms. These include several small distributed throughout the day meals, exercise in the form of walks, regular change of showers, a balanced high fiber diet and plenty of hydration. This can often be mild forms of gastro-intestinal discomfort, nausea, etc. typical pregnancy to a minimum limit.

If medication is required, these are in any case medically clarified. Insulin, for example, is regarded as non-problematic, because it is due to its large molecules of the placenta, it is therefore not harmful. For the various symptoms and diseases during pregnancy, there are specific medical recommendations, which are based on studies and information as to which a drug substance is suitable and what should be avoided.

Even for chronic diseases that already existed before the pregnancy and with medications that are prescribed by the doctor should be discussed whether the active ingredient in the long-term medication for the fetus is safe.